When it comes to exploring the world of international cuisine, few countries offer as much excitement and variety as Japan. From sushi to ramen, tempura to teriyaki, Japanese cooking has a way of capturing our hearts and taste buds. But with so many different dishes to try, where do you start? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 19 authentic Japanese recipes that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Tokyo.
From classic comfort foods like miso soup and beef sukiyaki hotpot, to innovative creations like sushi rolls with avocado and cucumber, these recipes showcase the best of Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these dishes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Japanese-inspired Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame. This simple recipe combines the savory flavor of miso paste, tender tofu, and sweet wakame seaweed for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1/4 cup dried wakame seaweed
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and grated daikon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add cubed tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes or until heated through.
3. Add dried wakame seaweed and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onion and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken with Steamed Rice
This classic Japanese-inspired dish combines tender chicken breast with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy steamed rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 2 tbsp water. Pour sauce over chicken; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Beef Sukiyaki Hotpot
This classic Japanese hot pot recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions. With tender beef, savory broth, and an assortment of vegetables, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 4 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or beef stock)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, and dashi broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, and snow peas to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return beef to the pot and stir in sesame oil.
5. Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tempura Shrimp with Dipping Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this crispy and flavorful tempura shrimp recipe, served with a tangy dipping sauce that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water to the mixture, stirring until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip each shrimp into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Dipping Sauce (see below).
Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup sake or dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Serve warm alongside the tempura shrimp.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of shrimp)
Okonomiyaki Savory Pancake
Experience the flavors of Japan with this savory pancake recipe, filled with crispy bacon, juicy pork, and sweet onions. Okonomiyaki is a popular street food in Japan that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup grated cabbage
– 1/4 cup sliced bacon
– 1/4 cup diced pork belly (or substitute with ground beef)
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced onions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth.
2. Add grated cabbage, bacon, pork belly, onions, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Pour in the batter and cook for 4-5 minutes, until edges start to set.
5. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tonkatsu Crispy Pork Cutlet
Get ready for a Japanese-inspired culinary delight with this Tonkatsu Crispy Pork Cutlet recipe! Pan-fried to perfection, this dish is a popular favorite in Japan and around the world.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the breading station by mixing flour and panko breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
2. Dip each pork cutlet into the beaten egg, then coat with flour, shaking off excess.
3. Dredge the floured cutlet in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the breaded pork cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve with Tonkatsu sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes per 4 pork cutlets.
Chicken Karaage Japanese Fried Chicken
Chicken Karaage is a popular Japanese street food that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This recipe brings you the authentic flavors of Japan, with a simple and fun cooking process.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup potato starch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, potato starch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the mixture, then dip into beaten eggs, making sure to coat evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes per batch).
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your crispy and delicious Chicken Karaage!
Ramen with Soy Sauce Broth
This recipe serves a rich and savory bowl of ramen noodles swimming in a flavorful soy sauce broth, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the broth, soy sauce, sake, and sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
3. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir in the sesame oil into the broth.
5. To assemble, place some noodles in a bowl and ladle the hot soy sauce broth over the top. Garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Takoyaki Octopus Balls
Discover the addictive taste of Japan’s popular street food with this easy-to-make Takoyaki recipe. These crispy, chewy balls filled with tender octopus and savory sauce are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup sake (or substitute with water)
– 1/4 cup Japanese-style mayonnaise (Kewpie)
– 1/2 cup diced octopus
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Sesame seeds and bonito flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and water to form the batter.
2. Heat a takoyaki pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour about 1 tablespoon of batter into each ball mold (or small cup).
4. Add 1-2 pieces of diced octopus to each ball.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the bottom is crispy and golden brown.
6. Loosen with a spatula and flip; cook for another 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings: soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, sesame seeds, and bonito flakes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yakitori Grilled Chicken Skewers
Experience the flavorful and aromatic taste of traditional Japanese street food with these tender Yakitori Grilled Chicken Skewers, perfect for a quick and delicious meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup yakitori sauce (or combination of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, and grated daikon radish for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush yakitori sauce evenly over the chicken.
4. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with optional garnishes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Unagi Don Grilled Eel Rice Bowl
Experience the harmony of Japanese flavors with this Unagi Don grilled eel rice bowl recipe, featuring tender eel glazed in sweet soy sauce and served over a bed of fluffy Japanese rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 piece of unagi (grilled eel), sliced into thin pieces
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup Unagi Don glaze (sweet soy sauce mixture)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized.
3. Add sliced eel pieces to the pan and brush with Unagi Don glaze. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until glazed.
4. To assemble the bowl, place cooked rice at the bottom, followed by a piece of grilled eel, some caramelized onions, and chopped scallions.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Onigiri Rice Balls with Salmon Filling
These traditional Japanese rice balls filled with flavorful salmon are a perfect snack or lunch option. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy this delicious treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup salmon sashimi-grade fillet, flaked
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice by mixing with water until sticky and clumpy.
2. Divide the rice into small portions and shape each into a ball.
3. In a small bowl, mix together salmon, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Flatten each rice ball slightly and place a spoonful of the salmon filling in the center.
5. Fold the rice over the filling to form a triangle or oval shape.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Japanese Curry with Vegetables
A classic comfort food, Japanese curry is a staple in many Japanese households. This simple recipe combines the rich flavor of curry powder with a variety of colorful vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons Japanese curry powder
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or sesame oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrot, and potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the curry powder, water or broth, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour the curry mixture over the vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sushi Rolls with Avocado and Cucumber
Create a refreshing sushi experience at home with this simple recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado and the crunch of cucumber. Perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board or other surface.
3. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place an avocado slice in the middle of the rice.
5. Add a cucumber slice on top of the avocado.
6. Roll the sushi using your hands or a bamboo sushi mat.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( preparation time: 5 minutes)
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
Experience the unique flavor combination of Japan’s finest green tea, matcha, and rich cheesecake in this refreshing dessert. This recipe yields a creamy, slightly bitter, and utterly delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp matcha powder
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
5. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and matcha powder.
6. Pour batter into prepared crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tamagoyaki Japanese Sweet Omelette
Tamagoyaki, a classic Japanese sweet omelette, is a popular snack or dessert that’s easy to make and deliciously sweet. This recipe yields a fluffy and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sake or dry white wine (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well-beaten.
2. Add the sugar, soy sauce, and sake (if using) to the eggs and whisk until dissolved.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Grease the pan with a thin layer of oil or cooking spray.
4. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to set.
5. Use a spatula to gently roll the omelette into a cylindrical shape. Repeat this process several times, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes each time.
6. Cook for a total of 8-10 minutes, or until the omelette is cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.
7. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Shabu-Shabu Thinly Sliced Beef Hotpot
This classic Japanese hot pot recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions. With thinly sliced beef and a variety of vegetables, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 4 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)
– Assorted vegetables, such as:
+ Sliced mushrooms
+ Thinly sliced carrots
+ Bok choy
+ Green onions
+ Shungiku (edible chrysanthemum)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soy sauce, sake, and mirin. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add dashi broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and add thinly sliced beef. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Arrange assorted vegetables on a platter or individual plates.
5. Cook each type of vegetable in the hot pot for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until tender.
6. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dorayaki Red Bean Pancake Sandwich
Experience the classic Japanese treat with a twist by making your own Dorayaki Red Bean Pancake Sandwich! This sweet and savory sandwich is filled with red bean paste and topped with crispy pancake batter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (available at Asian grocery stores or online)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional toppings: whipped cream, strawberries, and powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Using a ladle, pour the batter into the pan to form small pancakes.
5. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Assemble sandwich by spreading red bean paste on one pancake and topping with another pancake.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (4-5 pancakes at a time)
Gyudon Beef and Onion Rice Bowl
Gyudon, a popular Japanese comfort food, is a flavorful and satisfying rice bowl dish that combines tender beef and caramelized onions with steamed Japanese rice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef slices in a pan with a little oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, combine soy sauce, sake, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and add cooked beef slices. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
4. Serve the beef mixture over steamed Japanese rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Japan with these 19 authentic recipes! From comforting bowls like Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame to savory hotpots like Japanese Beef Sukiyaki, there’s something for every palate. Satisfy your cravings with sweet treats like Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake or Dorayaki Red Bean Pancake Sandwich. Try your hand at making Okonomiyaki Savory Pancakes or crispy Tonkatsu Crispy Pork Cutlets. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will transport you to the streets of Tokyo and beyond.
